Samsung Electronics moves to allow employees use of external AI models like ChatGPT

Samsung Electronics is preparing to allow its employees to use external generative artificial intelligence (AI) models, such as ChatGPT, for their work. This significant policy shift comes after a period where the company had effectively prohibited such usage due to concerns about the leakage of confidential information.

The decision by Samsung's management, reportedly agreed upon by the business support office, signals a recognition of AI's growing importance in enhancing work efficiency and productivity. Previously, the company had restricted the use of external AI tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Anthropic's Claude. This restriction was largely a response to an incident in 2023 where an employee inputted sensitive company data into ChatGPT. Consequently, the Device Solutions (DS) division allowed limited use only with internal approval, while other divisions, including the Device eXperience (DX) division, faced a near-total ban.

Samsung appears to have concluded that the potential benefits of embracing generative AI outweigh the security risks. Employee dissatisfaction with the limitations of internal AI models and the desire to keep pace in the rapidly evolving AI landscape likely influenced this decision. Noh Tae-moon, President and Head of the DX Division, had previously stated a goal to utilize AI in 90% of all work areas by 2030 and emphasized AI's role in innovating work methods and boosting productivity in his New Year's address.

To mitigate security concerns, Samsung plans to implement safeguards. These may include running AI models solely within the company's internal network or preventing employee input from being used to train external AI models. Information classified as core national technology will likely be excluded from AI usage. While many employees welcome the change, anticipating increased efficiency, some still express concerns about potential data leaks. This move by Samsung, known for its conservative work culture, could influence other major South Korean corporations, many of which currently maintain similar restrictions on external AI services.